By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Federal Government has approved a monthly transport allowance of ₦70,000 for Nigerian workers for six months, beginning in November 2026, to ease economic pressures. The decision followed a conciliation meeting between the government and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Abuja on Tuesday.
The meeting addressed workers’ welfare, minimum wage negotiations, outstanding allowances, tax relief and proposed salary adjustments. Both parties also agreed on measures to improve working conditions and review the implementation of their resolutions.
FG Approves ₦70,000 Transport Allowance
Under the agreement, eligible workers will receive ₦70,000 monthly for six months. The intervention aims to cushion the effects of economic challenges on workers.
Furthermore, the meeting approved a plan to settle outstanding arrears of workers’ peculiar allowance. The government will pay the arrears in three equal monthly instalments, beginning in November.
The allowance takes effect from May 1, 2026, following the government’s approval.
Government to Pay Health Workers’ Allowance Arrears
The government also agreed to settle 19 months of outstanding allowances owed to health workers.
According to the resolutions, payments will run for three months, starting in December 2026. The arrangement seeks to address longstanding concerns over unpaid entitlements.
Meanwhile, the parties discussed adjustments to the Consolidated Health Salary Structure. The National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission will update the cost implications within three weeks.
This update will enable the Presidential Committee on Salaries to consider the proposed adjustment.
Agricultural Officers’ Hazard Allowance Under Review
The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has submitted the proposed hazard allowance details to the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission.
The submission contains the beneficiaries’ list and the estimated cost of the allowance for agricultural officers.
The commission expects to complete its verification within two weeks. Afterward, it will issue an implementation template to guide the process.
FG and NLC Begin Minimum Wage Negotiations
The meeting also addressed negotiations on the national minimum wage.
Both parties agreed to establish the Minimum Wage Negotiation Committee and begin work immediately. However, they disagreed over the effective date for implementing the proposed minimum wage.
The disagreement remains one of the issues requiring further discussion between the government and organised labour.
Tax Relief for Workers Referred to NEC
The government and labour representatives also discussed tax relief for Nigerian workers.
However, the meeting referred the matter to the National Executive Council (NEC) for consideration. The participants noted that taxation falls under statutory provisions.
The Federal Government reiterated its respect for organised labour’s right to advocate better working conditions. It also said the concerns raised were receiving attention through structured interventions.
FG Calls for State and Local Government Participation
The meeting urged state and local governments to participate in implementing the agreed measures.
It also called on labour unions to ensure compliance with the resolutions. Both parties agreed to reconvene in one month to assess progress and address outstanding issues.
The Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment convened the meeting following concerns raised by the NLC over workers’ welfare and demands for improved working conditions.
Key Officials Attend Conciliation Meeting
The meeting brought together government officials and labour representatives to discuss the outstanding issues.
Those present included the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Muhammad Dingyadi; NLC President, Joe Ajaero; and Director-General of the Budget Office, Tanimu Yakubu.
Other government and labour representatives also participated in the discussions.
The next meeting will provide an opportunity to assess implementation and determine further steps on unresolved matters.
